To warm up the Yule Log for its showcase at the DPUM on August 2, The Knew comes out of the songwriting closet with a new EP, Boom Bust, packing a whole album's worth of energy into a small, convenient package. Retaining their sense and sensibility for rockabilly-ish-esque indie ditties, "Be Yourself" is a Kangaroo Jack jump fest, bouncing with the free energy of bra-less Dolly Parton during a 7.0 earthquake. I'm guessing "Revolver" was the inspiration behind the EP's artwork, but either way, this track's loaded with plenty of slide guitar goodness.

But it's "Renaissance Man" that really spotlights the band's progression over the years, with a build up that will no doubt get the crowd spilling their Old Style with complete disregard for their pristine brew cozys at this Saturday's EP Bash at Hi-Dive.

- Kaffeine Buzz

"...Their sound is country slam dancing with garage rock, punk square dancing with the blues. Their playing was tight, accomplished and damn tasty. It doesn't hurt a bit that they look and feel like a proper rock band, kind of outlandish and half-wild, oozing confidence and manic enthusiasm..." - Westword

"This was the single-best set I saw on Saturday. And that’s saying something, because I ducked out of the showcase slightly early to check out the Warlocks/Black Angels show at the Bluebird Theater later that night...The Knew has always been a solid live band, a good-times rock outfit known and loved for their wild shows and their garage-styled rock ’n’ roll. But now it seems like they’re all grown up. Playing with the right mix of garage and classic rock...their music leapt off the stage and into their fans’ chests. It wasn’t long before everyone was overtaken with the passion — the need to move and dance and yelp along. Talk about a welcome evolution...now the Knew...are one of the most exciting bands in the Mile High City." - Denver Post

"No surprise that Boom Bust recalls last year's Holladay...they share an appreciation for tight, punchy songcraft...The opener, "By Yourself," is simultaneously danceable and jittery, with guitarist/vocalist Jacob Hansen and his crew declaring, "Ooh, it's all about always being modern," in a tone that bridges the gap between irony and sincerity. That's followed by the faux-rootsiness of "Renaissance Man," the atmospheric "Coldblack" and three other reliably enjoyable tracks. It's another solid platter from a band that prizes quality and consistency over the shock of the Knew." - Westword

"...it’s easy to understand the appeal of the Knew. Before they get on stage, it’s hard to pick them out from the crowd — besides the fact that they must be the tallest band in Denver. They’re that unassuming. These four musicians don’t have skinny jeans and rockstar attitudes. They’re just like you and me, and that’s pretty refreshing to see. As for the music –- the real reason bands have fans -– it’s plain and simple fun. It’s hard to be in a room with the Knew playing and not feel a sort of blissful rush of feelings that make your body start moving in some way, even if it’s just a secret toe-tap at the start of each of their songs." - Denver Post

The Knew are an optimistic bunch. Their ode to rock and roll is chuck full of howling vocals, guitar buffets and celebratory drum pounding. Their songs are armed with courage and truth amidst stories of nightlife, love and the Apocalypse. The resulting sound is primal, tight and devouring. And fun. This band is fun. Their guitar-based bombast will make your aching body boogie, your sad face happy, and your heavy heart sprint. Their latest full-length, Man Monster, is a body slam of melody, power, and thick riffs. It's the album that your best bud's of age brother jams. Man Monster will never let you shoulder tap. It'll set you and your crew up for the evening and will drive you home in the morning. There's no shame in staying over. Thanks for listening.